Built primarily for manual training, domestic science, and agriculture classes, the building – like many others on campus – accommodated other uses and names throughout its history: it was known as the de facto Agriculture Building to most students and faculty, and an early Alcalde calls the building "Old Administration."

Designed by architect A. O. Watson and to be built at a cost not to exceed $20,000, the new building was described as containing "two stories and a basement" upon its completion and being "a handsome structure of red pressed brick...especially designed for the purpose for which it used [74]." During the construction, a buildup of water in the foundation prompted made it necessary to install a drainage system.

There was a proposal in the early 1980s to bestow Austin Hall, the Main Building, the Peabody Library, and the Industrial Arts Building with the status of historic landmarks. However, at the suggestion of Campus Master Plan, and because of more foundation problems, high construction costs, and a decrease in property value, the seventy year-old building was instead demolished.

The 1983 Alcalde notes a time capsule was found during the demolition.  Inside were a promotional booklet about SHNI, a list of the senior class for the 1909-10 school year, and a February 13, 1910 issue of the Huntsville Post-Item about the planned festivities for the February 22 laying of the cornerstone of the Agriculture, Manual Training, and Domestic Sciences Building.